Ski Grinding System

ABSTRACT

A ski grinding system comprising a ski grinding device operable with a ski, the ski grinding device comprising a riser having a grinding surface, the riser being attached or otherwise secured to a ski so that the grinding surface is flush with or extends beyond the outside edge of the ski. The ski grinding device further comprises a plate attached to the riser and extending beyond the grinding surface of the riser. Secured to the bottom of the overhanging portion of the plate is a grinding pad, such that the grinding pad comes in contact with objects being grinded upon.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/500,687, filed Jun. 24, 2011, and entitled “Ski Grinding System,” which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to ski equipment for performing skiing stunts and tricks, and more specifically, to devices and systems attached or attachable to one's skis to facilitate stunts and tricks, such as sliding and grinding, on various objects while skiing.

BACKGROUND

“Newschool” skiing, is a type of skiing which involves using natural or manmade objects in conjunction with freestyle skiing. One such method of newschool skiing is called grinding. In general, grinding is where an athlete performs a sliding stunt or trick across the top or edge of an object or obstacle. Many extreme sports involve grinding, such as skateboarding, wakeboarding and snowboarding.

In skiing, grinds are usually performed at terrain parks where skiers attempt tricks. These parks include many features like rails, boxes, jumps, hips, quarter-pipes, and half-pipes. Grinds can also be preformed in the backcountry using naturally made objects and even in urban environments. However, because of the current design of traditional skis, skiers are limited in the number and variety of tricks, stunts and/or grinds they may perform. Therefore, what is needed is a new device that allows skiers to perform a greater number and variety of tricks and grinds.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Set forth herein is a ski grinding system comprising a ski grinding device operable with a ski, the ski grinding device comprising a riser having a grinding surface, the riser being attached or otherwise secured to a ski so that the grinding surface is flush with or extends beyond the outside edge of the ski. The ski grinding device further comprises a plate attached above the riser extending beyond the grinding surface of the riser. Secured to the bottom to the overhanging portion of the plate and adjacent to the riser, is a grinding pad such that the grinding pad comes in contact with objects being grinded upon. The device is secured directly to the skis, wherein the bindings may be attached on top of the device.

The present invention features a ski grinding system comprising a ski having an upper surface; a ski binding operable to secure a user about the ski; and a ski grinding device operable with the ski and the ski binding, the ski grinding device comprising a riser having a grinding surface; a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area located beyond an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object, and wherein the ski grinding device supports a transfer in at least a portion of the weight of the user from the ski to the ski grinding device when engaged with the object.

The present invention further features a ski grinding device, comprising a riser having a grinding surface; and a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area about an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object.

A method for facilitating one or more stunts to be performed on skis, the method comprising providing a ski grinding device configured for operation with a ski as part of a ski grinding system, the ski grinding device comprising a riser having a grinding surface; and a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area about an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention, they are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail using the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a pair of ski grinding systems, each comprising a ski grinding device coupled to a ski in accordance with one example of the present invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the ski grinding systems of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a ski grinding device in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2B illustrates an exploded perspective view of the ski grinding device of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C illustrates a transverse cross-section of the ski grinding device of FIG. 2A taken along section A-A of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D illustrates a transverse cross-section of a ski grinding device similar to the device of FIG. 2A, wherein the grinding pad of the ski grinding device at least partially defines a channel;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a ski grinding device in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of the ski grinding device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C illustrates a transverse cross-section of the ski grinding device of FIG. 3B taken along section B-B of FIG. 3B;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a pair (first and second or right and left) of ski grinding systems, each comprising a ski grinding device coupled to a ski, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the pair of ski grinding systems of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of first and second (or right and left) ski grinding devices as part of the ski grinding systems of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the ski grinding devices of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of the ski grinding devices of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of one of the ski grinding devices of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the ski grinding devices of FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a pair (first and second or right and left) of ski grinding devices in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of ski grinding systems, each comprising first and second ski grinding devices attached to a ski, in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of one of the ski grinding devices of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded perspective view of one of the ski grinding device of FIG. 12; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a transverse cross-section of the ski grinding device of FIG. 14 taken along section C-C of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.

The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are designated by numerals throughout.

Generally speaking, the ski grinding system with the ski grinding device enhances the capabilities of the ski, and increases the number of available maneuvers a user or skier can perform when skiing. Indeed, a skier can accomplish the same tricks that can be done with traditional skis as well as a variety of new or additional tricks. The ski grinding device allows a skier to do more tricks than just slide across the top or down the face of an object. The ski grinding device allows a skier to slide next to, stall out on, launch away from, etc. objects and obstacles. Additionally, the device allows a skier to approach objects from many different angles, as well as to perform a variety of other tricks that cannot be accomplished without the device. Further, the configuration of the ski grinding device does not interfere with a skiers ability to ski normally. However, if the skier desires to do so, the device can be used to perform various stunts or tricks, as well as to act as a brake to assist the skier in slowing down or stopping.

With specific reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, illustrated is a pair of ski grinding systems 10 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein each ski grinding system comprises a ski 50, an associated ski binding (not shown) used to secure a user or skier to or about the ski, and a ski grinding device 14 supported about the ski. It is noted that two ski grinding systems are shown in the figures. However, reference to only one ski grinding system will be made as left and right skis will likely be equipped with the same type of ski grinding system. Nonetheless, those skilled in the art will recognize that left and right skis may comprise the same or a different type of ski grinding system.

More specifically, the ski grinding system 10 is shown as comprising a ski grinding device 14 attached or otherwise coupled to or about a ski 50 that is operable with a ski binding coupled thereto, wherein the ski grinding device 14 is operable with the ski 50 and the associated ski binding to facilitate enhanced performance capabilities of both the ski and the skier. Indeed, as will be discussed in greater detail below, the ski grinding system 10 is configured to provide a skier with the ability to perform various stunts or tricks while skiing that he/she would not otherwise be able to perform.

In the particular embodiment shown, the ski grinding device 14 comprises a single lift or riser 18 configured to support a plate 22 (and the ski bindings) about an upper surface of the riser 18, and in an elevated position relative to an upper surface of the ski 50. Although the ski bindings are not shown, the plate can be configured to be positioned between the riser 18 and the ski bindings. Moreover, the riser 18 can be positioned to be flush with or overhang or extend past the outside edge of the ski 50 and can be fastened or otherwise coupled to the ski 50 about the ski binding using a variety of coupling methods and means, such as by using one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.). To facilitate this, the riser 18 can comprise pre-drilled holes, as shown. The riser 18 can comprise any desired height.

In one exemplary embodiment, the riser can comprise a height and can extend up from the surface of the ski between 0.5 and 3 inches. In a specific embodiment, the riser can comprise a height of 1.5 inches.

The plate 22 is shown as being supported about an upper surface of the riser 18. The plate 22 can be sized and configured to cover all or a portion of the top of the riser 18, and can further be configured to extend beyond the edge of the riser 18 and the outside or outer edge of the ski 50 to provide an overhang or overhanging portion 23. The overhang 23 along with the riser 18 can define, at least in part, a grinding area located about or beyond an edge of the ski, wherein the grinding area is configured to receive or engage and to slide about an object, such as a grinding rail (not shown), and to support the rider or skier about the object during a stunt or trick being performed. The ski grinding device, and particularly the grinding area, can be configured to support a transfer or shift in at least a portion of the weight of a user from the ski to the ski grinding device when the ski grinding device is engaged with the object. As such, the grinding device 14 is configured to be capable of supporting a load during the various maneuvers or stunts or tricks, as will be explained further below.

The overhang 23 can extend any desired distance. In one exemplary embodiment, the overhang can extend between 1 and 4 inches from the edge of the ski and/or the riser 18. In another exemplary embodiment, the overhang 23 can extend between 2 and 3 inches. In a specific embodiment, the overhang 23 can extend 2.5 inches.

In short, when mounted onto a ski, the plate 22 with its overhang 23, and the riser 18 define and provide a grinding area comprising, at least in part, the various surfaces from one or more of these components (e.g., a horizontal surface by way of the plate 22 and a vertical surface by way of the riser 18) configured to engage an object to be slid or grinded upon. The ski grinding device 14 can further comprise a grinding pad 26 configured to provide a suitable grinding surface. The grinding pad 26 can be attached to the bottom or underside of the overhanging portion of the plate 22 and can positioned adjacent the riser 18. Details of the various components or elements of the invention will be discussed in greater detail below with respect to the various exemplary embodiments set forth herein. With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, illustrated is a ski grinding device 214 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, which is similar in many respects to the ski grinding device 14 shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. The ski grinding device 214 can comprise a front riser 218, a rear riser 220, a plate 222 and a grinding pad 226. The ski grinding device 214 can attach to or be coupled about a ski (such as the ski 50 shown in FIG. 1A) having a ski binding to form a ski grinding system. The front riser 220 can be configured to be positioned or located in a front or forward position about the ski, and secured thereto, with the rear riser 220 being configured to be positioned or located in a rear or rearward position about the ski, and secured thereto.

In one aspect, the front riser 218 and rear riser 220 may be positioned between a ski binding and the ski along a vertical axis. In other words, a ski binding may be secured to and supported about the ski grinding device 214 rather than being secured directly to the ski. In this arrangement, the ski binding can be attached to the ski through the ski grinding system 214, namely the risers 218 and 220 and the plate 222. In some cases, two sets of fasteners may be used, with one set being used to fasten the risers 218 and 220 to the ski and the other set being used to attach the ski bindings. Alternatively, one set of fasteners may be used to attach the ski bindings to the ski, securing the ski grinding device 214 between the bindings and the ski.

Each riser 218 and 220 can be positioned and secured in place about the top or upper surface of the ski. Moreover, each riser 218 and 220 can be sized, configured and positioned to be flush with the outside or outer edge of the ski, or they can be sized, configured and positioned to extend a distance beyond the outside or outer edge of the ski. With the risers 218 and 220 extending at least partially beyond the outer edge of the ski, damage to the ski itself (e.g., to the ski edge or ski blade) can be minimized as a skier grinds and slides against an object as the object will be more likely to come in contact with the risers rather than the edges of the ski.

The riser or risers can be composed of various materials such as metal, PVC, plastic or other composites or polymers. The riser has many functions including elevating the plate 222 above the surface of the ski a sufficient distance to prevent the plate 222 from contacting the snow while a skier is skiing and performing turns in a normal manner. However, depending upon the configuration of the ski grinding device, a skier wanting to utilize the ski grinding device to slow down, stop or park on a slope may do so by rotating or tilting the ski and the corresponding ski grinding device 214 towards the snow, intentionally digging the plate 222 into the snow until the desired action results.

The riser further functions to provide a surface or grinding surface (e.g., a vertical grinding surface) about which the skier can perform grinds and other stunts or tricks. Because the riser may be used as a grinding surface and because the riser may be subject to various loads, the riser can be made of a durable material. In one embodiment, the riser may be generally configured in a block-like or cuboid shape. However, such is not intended to be limiting in any way as the riser may be configured in many different shapes and may comprise many different configurations. Additionally, the riser need not be a single, unitary structure, but rather can be comprised of a combination of multiple elements or components. For example, one element or component of the riser may be comprised of metal while one or more other portions, for example the outer surface of the riser whereon grinds are preformed, may be comprised of a plastic or composite material that provides a more suitable and desirable sliding surface. Moreover, the riser can comprise a solid monolithic structure, or it may comprise a removable and replaceable grinding pad that is interchangeable with one or more other grinding pads of the same or different type. For example, the riser 218 is shown as comprising a grinding pad 240 configured to be removably coupled to the outer surface 232 of the riser 218, and secured thereto using one or more fastener types through the provided apertures formed in both the grinding pad 240 and the riser 218 (see FIG. 2B).

Attached to the risers 218 and 220 is a plate 222. The plate 222 may be configured to extend along a longitudinal direction relative to the ski from the front end of the front riser 218 to the back end of the back riser 220, and may further be configured to extend beyond the front or back ends of the risers 218 and 220. Additionally, all or a portion of the plate 222 can be configured to extend in a lateral direction beyond the edge of the risers 218 and 220 to provide an overhang 223 that functions as a support surface configured to engage an object when performing a variety of stunts or tricks. In one embodiment, only a portion of the plate 222 can be made to extend in a lateral direction so as to provide or define a cutout. As in the embodiment shown, the cutout can comprise an L-shaped channel 250. The channel 250 can be defined in part by the plate 222, as well as the outer edges of the riser 220 in some embodiments. The cutout or channel can be configured to permit the normal operation and function of an associated ski binding, and particularly to provide clearance for an articulating brake of a ski binding. Indeed, as the ski binding can be supported about the upper surface of the plate 222, and as the plate 222 can be configured to extend outward from the edge of the ski and the risers supporting the plate 222 to provide a supporting overhang, it is possible that the ski grinding device could interfere with the brakes of the ski binding and prevent their normal operation if not formed with a cutout. By providing a cutout or channel within the plate 222, the ski binding can operate as intended and designed, unobstructed by the ski grinding device.

The plate 222 can be configured to provide a strong load-bearing support base, which allows a skier to perform a variety of stunts or tricks during a skiing event using the ski grinding device 214. Because the plate 222 can be subjected to significant loads, the plate 222 can be made of durable materials (or a composite of materials), such as metal, plastics, composites, or other materials that will be able to withstand the loads and not break or deform. The plate 222 may be pre-drilled with holes to facilitate attachment of the ski binding(s) to the risers 218 and 220 and the skis. However, because ski bindings do not have uniform specifications for binding fasteners, holes may be added in the plate 222 by a user or a skilled artisan to fit a specific binding's hole pattern.

The ski grinding device 214 can further comprise a grinding pad that operates or functions to provide a desirable grinding or sliding surface, which grinding surface can, at least in part, help define the grinding area of the ski grinding device. Shown fastened to the bottom of the plate 222 is one exemplary grinding pad 226. The grinding pad 226 can be made up of similar material to that of the risers 218 and 220, or it may comprise a different material. The grinding pad 226 functions to engage an object to allow a skier to slide along or against the object. As such, the grinding pad 226 can be configured to provide a surface having a suitable coefficient of friction (coefficient of static and/or kinetic friction). Stated differently, the grinding pad 226 may be configured to provide a low coefficient of friction between the grinding pad 226 and the object. In most instances, it will be desirable to provide a grinding pad made of a material capable of reducing or minimizing the friction between the grinding pad and the object being grinded upon. However, there may be other instances where a higher coefficient of friction is desired, and therefore embodiments of a ski grinding device having a grinding pad that provides a relatively low coefficient of friction should not be construed as limiting in any way. Similar to the grinding pad 226, the risers 218 and 220 can be formed of a material that provides a relatively low coefficient of friction between the risers and the object to be engaged.

The grinding pad 226 may be configured to match the shape of the overhanging portion or overhang 223 of the plate 222 and may be flush with or extend beyond the overhang 223, thus protecting the plate 222 from coming into direct contact with the grinding objects, and preserving both the ski grinding device 214 and the grinding object itself. The grinding pad 226 may be permanently fastened to the plate 222 or may be removable and replaceable or interchangeable with other grinding pads of the same or different type. A removable and replaceable or interchangeable grinding device 226 allows a skier to replace a worn grinding pad 226 without needing to replace or remove the entire ski grinding device 214. In a similar manner, replaceable grinding pads (e.g., grinding pad 240) may also be fastened to each riser 218 and 220, as discussed above.

FIG. 2C shows a transverse cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the ski grinding device 214 of FIG. 2A. In this cross-sectional view, the rear riser 220, the plate 222 and the grinding pad 226 are illustrated. The grinding pad 226 is shown to be fastened to the underside of the plate 222 and to be flush with the outer surface of the plate 222. The grinding pad 226 is also shown as being sized and configured such that it is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the riser 220. In this particular embodiment, the grinding pad 226 comprises an outer surface or edge 230 that is orthogonal to the bottom surface of the grinding pad 226 and the plate 222. Moreover, the grind pad 226 is shown as being situated in a plane substantially parallel with respect to the plate 222 and the riser 220. While such a relationship between the grinding pad 226 and the plate 222 and riser 220 can help a skier to perform a variety of tricks and grinds, it should be appreciated that the grind plate 226 can be situated at different orientations relative to the plate 222 and/or the riser 220 to accommodate other tricks and grinds. Stated differently, the grind plate 226 can comprise a surface that is oriented between 0 and 90 degrees as measured from the upper surface of the ski.

In other embodiments, the grinding pad 226 can comprise a size and configuration so as to define, or at least help to define, a channel 236 between the grinding pad 226 and the riser 220, as shown in FIG. 2D. In the particular embodiment shown, the grinding pad 226 comprises a shorter width than the grinding pad of FIGS. 2A-2C. The channel 236 can comprise different widths, and can function to facilitate increased stability to the skier while performing tricks and stunts.

It is further noted herein, that the grinding surfaces of the ski grinding device (e.g., the surfaces on the riser, the grinding pad(s), the plate, etc.) that come into contact with objects while the ski grinding device 214 is in use, do not need to be planar or flat. Other surface configurations, such as concave, curved or uneven surface configurations, may assist a skier in performing desired tricks and stunts or in providing increased stability (see the grinding pad 326 in FIG. 3C for an example illustration). Further, as shown in this embodiment, the outside edge 234 of the grinding pad 226 can be tapered or curved to also assist a skier to transition to and from an object while using the ski grinding device 214.

Many different tricks, grinds and stunts can be accomplished using the ski grinding systems and devices discussed herein. Depending upon the configuration of the systems and devices, stunts or tricks can be done from a forwards, backwards or sideways position. For example, a skier can grind or slide parallel to the edge of a rail (round edge) or box (square edge) on one ski going backwards. Alternatively, a skier may slide down sideways along a box and lean back onto the surface of the box, thus balancing his weight on the side edge of the plate of the ski grinding device and the side edge of the ski. Further, the ski grinding systems and devices can be configured to allow a skier to approach an object from a variety of angles, unlike a skier using skis without a grinding device. The ski grinding systems and devices can be configured to permit interaction with a corner of the of a grinding object. Still further, a user can face forward and perform a sliding or grinding stunt longitudinally along the edge of the grinding object if desired.

Another advantage is that the ski grinding systems and devices allow a skier to cross his/her skis while performing tricks and stunts. For example, while sliding down a rail, a skier may cross his free foot in front, or behind, his engaged leg. This is possible because the ski grinding device provides additional stability to allow the skier to continue grinding on the object with one foot whereas a skier without the device would have a tendency to fall or drift off the object while attempting to perform the same trick. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other tricks, grinds and stunts can be performed using the ski grinding systems and devices discussed herein as imagined and created by individual users.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, illustrated is a ski grinding device 314 formed in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the ski grinding device 314 has similar elements to the previous embodiments discussed above. For example, the ski grinding device 314 can comprise a front riser 318, a rear riser 320, a plate 322, and a grinding pad 326. In this embodiment, and as shown, the plate 322 can comprise a transition segment in the form of a transition edge 324 about one or more edges near its front, which may assist a skier in transitioning to and from an object engaged by the ski grinding device 314. In one embodiment, the transition edge 324 can comprise a curved edge that extends between front and a side edges, and that comprises a radius or curve sized as needed or desired. The transition edge 324 also reduces the likelihood of the plate 322 being deformed or damaged upon impact with an object, or upon grinding or sliding about an objects. Furthermore, the transition edge 324 may deflect impact to the plate 322 when tricks are done improperly. It will be appreciated that the edges of the plate 322 may comprise a curved or rounded, beveled, or other shape.

The ski grinding device 314 can further comprise a cutout or cavity 328 formed in the plate 322 along an interior edge of the plate 322. The cavity 328 can be configured to be positioned anywhere between the front and rear risers 318 and 320 upon assembly of the ski grinding device 314 to a ski, and can comprise various sizes and configurations. The cavity 328 functions to decrease the inherent stiffness in the plate 322 so as to minimize interference with the inherent flex or stiffness properties of the ski. Indeed, the cavity or cutout 328 can be sized and configured or tuned to correspond to the stiffness and flexure properties of the ski so as to have as little an effect on these properties as possible. In addition, the cavity 328 can be configured as a handle or as part of a handle, such that one function of the cavity can be to facilitate easy transport of the ski grinding device (and a ski if coupled thereto) by a user. Another function is to allow a user to more effectively clean snow and debris off the ski grinding device by facilitating access to a greater portion of the ski grinding device.

With reference to FIGS. 3A-3C, the ski grinding device 314 can further comprise a grinding pad 326 that extends beyond the perimeter or outside edge of the plate 322. In this particular embodiment, the grinding pad 326 may comprise an outside edge 334 that extends beyond the perimeter or the outside of the edge of the plate 322. All or part of the grinding pad 326 may be caused to extend beyond the plate 322. In addition, the edge 334 of the grinding pad 326 can be configured to extend outward or be positioned beyond the plate 322 by a uniform distance along the plate 322 or it can be configured or caused to taper off near the front or the rear end of the plate 322. For example, the edge 334 of the grinding pad 326 may extend beyond the outer edge of the plate 322 near the rear and middle of the ski grinding device 314, but may taper off towards the front curved edge 324 such that a portion of the edge 334 of the grinding pad 326 is flush with the edge of the plate 322, or inside of the edge of the plate 322. Tapering off the grinding pad 326 near front of the device 314 can help to prevent the grinding pad 326 from prematurely catching on an object.

FIG. 3C further illustrates an underside surface 332 of the grinding pad 326 as comprising a non-planar configuration, such as a concave configuration, rather than a flat surface configuration. Such a surface configuration may facilitate an increased amount of surface area of the grinding pad in contact with or as engaged with an object, particularly if the object comprises a similar round or curved configuration. Other surface configurations or shapes are contemplated herein, and are intended to be within the scope of the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 4-10, illustrated is a ski grinding system 410 in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment. The ski grinding system 410 comprises many of the features and elements that are the same as or similar to the ones discussed above, which discussion is incorporated herein where similar features and/or functions exist. The ski grinding system 10 comprises a ski grinding device 414 operable with a ski 450 and associated ski bindings (not shown). The ski grinding system can comprise a first riser 418 and a second riser 420 that support a plate 422 above a ski. In this particular embodiment, the ski grinding device 414 comprises a grinding pad integrally formed with the plate 422. Therefore, rather than comprising separate components as the ski grinding devices discussed above, the ski grinding device 414 shown comprises a grinding pad and a plate 422 comprised of the same structure (both being referred to herein as plate or grinding plate 422). Stated differently, the plate 422 comprises a grinding surface 426 that functions similar to the underneath surface of the grinding pads discussed above. The grinding plate 422 comprises a greater thickness than the plates discussed above, as it is intended to also perform the functions of a grinding pad.

The grinding plate 422 can further comprise any size and configuration as taught herein. In one embodiment, as shown, the grinding plate 422 can comprise a transition edge 424 formed in the front of the grinding plate 422, similar to the transition edge 324 of FIG. 3A. In addition, the grinding plate 422 can comprise a channel 474 similar to the L-shaped channel discussed above that permits normal operation and movement of, and that prevents the ski grinding device from obstructing or interfering with, the brakes of an associated ski binding. A portion 470 of the grinding plate 422 defining the channel can also function as a handle.

Still further, the grinding plate 422 can comprise a dedicated handle 480 for facilitating carrying of the ski grinding device and an attached or coupled ski. The handle 480 can comprise any configuration. In the embodiment shown, the handle 480 is formed into the grinding plate 422 along an interior edge 433 of the grinding plate 422. The handle comprises four rounds or recesses for receiving the fingers of a user.

The grinding plate 422 can further comprise an indentation or depression 460 formed therein along an exterior edge 434 of the grinding plate 422. The depression 460 can be located opposite the handle 480 so as to provide a reduced width within a portion of the grinding plate 422. The depression 460 functions to provide a segment of the grinding plate 422 that can receive and in essence “lock” on a rail or other object to facilitate performance of various stunts or tricks. The depression 460 can be sized and configured to receive a portion of the object therein, and to provide at least a partial nesting relationship between the grinding plate 422 and the object. As a secondary function, the depression 460 and the resulting reduced width portion can also be considered an extension of the handle 480 as it can make it easier to grasp the ski grinding device 414 by reducing a portion of the width of the grinding plate 422 and better conforming to the hand of the user.

The ski grinding device 414 can further comprise weight reduction features. For example, the risers 418 and 420 can be configured to comprise voids or volumes of space. In one example, the risers 418 and 420 can each be configured with a hollow interior or a recess 419 and 421, respectively, formed in an underside portion (see FIG. 10). By providing an interior void, the outer shape and structure of the risers is maintained (most importantly the grinding surface), yet there is a significant reduction in weight over a solid riser. Of course, the embodiment shown is not meant to be limiting in any way as other riser designs exist that could provide similar weight reduction functions. Similar weight reducing techniques could also be implemented for the grinding plate 422.

Referring now to FIG. 11, illustrated is still another exemplary embodiment of a ski grinding device formed in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the ski grinding device 514 comprises many of the features and elements that are the same as or similar to the ones discussed above, such as a grinding plate 522 having a transition edge 524, a depression 560, a cavity 528, and a cutout or channel 574. As such, the description of those embodiments is incorporated here, where similar features and/or functions exist. The grinding device 514

FIG. 12 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a ski grinding system 610, which can comprise a ski grinding device 614 attached or otherwise secured to a ski 650 (which can be operable with a ski binding (not shown)). The ski grinding device 614 can comprise a base member 640 and a peg 644, the base 640 being attached or otherwise secured to a ski 650. The base 640 can be situated on the ski 614 to be flush with or overhang the outside edge of the ski 650. The peg 644 can also extend outwards beyond the outer edge of the ski 650. The peg 644 can be elevated high enough up on the base 640 to avoid catching in the snow while a skier is skiing normally. On the other hand, a skier using the device 614 can to perform stunts, grinds, and tricks in a similar manner to the other ski grinding devices discussed above.

It should be appreciated that the ski grinding devices 614 can be situated and configured in a variety of ways. For example, the devices 614 may be located and secured between (along a vertical axis) the bindings and the ski, as described previously with the aforementioned embodiments. In this case, the top surface of the base 640 could be configured to allow the base 640 to be fastened to a ski binding, much like the risers discussed above. Alternatively, the devices 614 could be located in front the ski bindings, behind the ski bindings, or both, with the ski binding attached or secured directly to the ski in a traditional manner. In such case, the devices 614 may be configured differently. FIGS. 13-15 show one such configuration of the devices 614 illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 illustrates the ski grinding device 614 as comprising a base member 640 and a peg 644. The base member 640 can further comprise a grinding surface 642 and attachment holes 648. Both the grinding surface 642 and the peg 644 can be made of material that is suitable to facilitate grinding on and against objects, as discussed herein. For example, these materials may be the same as described previously in connection with the risers and the grind plates. Likewise, the material of the grinding surface 642 can be formed from a composite of materials. The grinding surface 642 may comprise the surface of the base member 640 itself. In another aspect, the ski grinding device 614 can further comprise a separate detachable (or removably attachable) member that can removably secure to the base member 640, and that can be replaceable and interchangeable, or permanently fixed to the base member 640.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded view of the ski grinding device 614 with the peg 644 separated from the base member 640. The peg 644 may be configured to be permanently fixed or removably coupled to the base member 640 through the peg opening 646. This can be accomplished in one exemplary aspect by forming threading on at least a portion of the peg 644 and forming corresponding threading in at least a portion of the peg opening 646. Additionally, a fastener can be placed on the end of the peg 644 opposite the end extending beyond the outside edge of the ski (not shown). In this case, the peg 644 could extend all the way through the base member 640. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the base member 640 does not need to span the width of a ski. For example, when the ski grinding device(s) is/are placed in front of and behind ski bindings, a thin base member 640 may be used.

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-section of the base member 640 taken along line C-C of FIG. 14, depicting one method of how the attachment holes 648 can be configured to facilitate fastening of the base member 640 to a ski, and to orient the base member 640 and the hole 646 in the proper orientation. It will be appreciated that a variety of methods can be used to secure the base member 640 to a ski.

The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein. While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention.

More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those skilled in the art based on the foregoing detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed description or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given above. 

1. A ski grinding system comprising: a ski having an upper surface; a ski binding operable to secure a user about the ski; and a ski grinding device operable with the ski and the ski binding, the ski grinding device comprising: a riser having a grinding surface; a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area located beyond an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object, and wherein the ski grinding device supports a transfer in at least a portion of the weight of the user from the ski to the ski grinding device when engaged with the object.
 2. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the ski grinding device further comprises a grinding pad supported about the plate, the grinding pad comprising a grinding surface and defining at least in part the grinding area.
 3. The ski grinding system of claim 2, wherein the grinding pad is removably coupled to the plate.
 4. The ski grinding system of claim 2, wherein the grinding surface of the grinding pad is oriented in a plane parallel to the upper surface of the ski.
 5. The ski grinding system of claim 2, wherein the grinding surface of the grinding pad comprises a non-planar configuration.
 6. The ski grinding system of claim 2, wherein the grinding pad extends in a lateral direction beyond an edge of the plate.
 7. The ski grinding system of claim 2, further comprising a channel formed between the grinding pad and the riser.
 8. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate further comprises a grinding surface that defines, at least in part, the grinding area.
 9. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate comprises a transition segment that extends between at least two edges near a front of the plate.
 10. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate further comprises a cutout formed in a rear portion of the plate for providing clearance for one or more components of a ski binding.
 11. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate further comprises a handle formed along at least one edge for facilitating lifting of the ski grinding system.
 12. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate comprises a grinding plate having a grinding surface integrally formed therein.
 13. The grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate further comprises a depression formed therein along an exterior edge of the grinding plate, the depression defining, at least in part, a reduced width portion of the plate for receiving an engaging at least part of the object.
 14. The grinding system of claim 1, wherein the plate further comprises a cavity and a resulting reduced area portion tuned to at least partially reduce the effect of the plate on the flexure properties of the ski.
 15. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the riser extends in a lateral direction outward from an edge of the ski a sufficient distance, and wherein a grinding surface of the riser is positioned beyond an edge of the ski so as to prevent the edge of the ski from being damaged upon use of the ski grinding device.
 16. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the riser comprises a plurality of components secured together.
 17. The grinding system of claim 1, wherein the riser comprises one or more voids formed therein, that function to reduce the weight of the riser.
 18. The ski grinding system of claim 1, further comprising a grinding pad removably secured to the riser.
 19. The ski grinding system of claim 1, wherein the riser comprises a first or front riser, and wherein the system further comprises a second or rear riser, the first and second risers being situated between the ski binding and the ski along a vertical axis.
 20. A ski grinding device, comprising: a riser having a grinding surface; and a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area about an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object.
 21. A method for facilitating one or more stunts to be performed on skis, the method comprising: providing a ski grinding device configured for operation with a ski as part of a ski grinding system, the ski grinding device comprising: a riser having a grinding surface; and a plate supported about the riser, and having an overhang portion that extends outward from an exterior edge of the riser, wherein the riser and the plate operate, at least in part, to define a grinding area about an edge of the ski configured to engage and slide about an object. 